What is an Shipper’s Letter of Instruction SLI in shipping?
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A simple guide for exporters
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SLI in shipping — What’s that?
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It’s like a
manual
for your shipment:
– What’s being shipped
– How it should be shipped
– Who it’s going to
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Why do exporters need an SLI?
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Without an SLI, your shipment can:
⚠️ Get delayed
⚠️ Be mishandled
⚠️ Face customs issues
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Who fills SLI?
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👉 You, the exporter
You share it with your logistics or shipping partner.
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What goes in SLI?
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📌 Exporter & consignee info
📌 Description of goods
📌 Destination country
📌 Preferred shipping
method
📌 Any special handling or
instructions
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It also includes:
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✅ Mode of transport
✅ Incoterms
✅ Freight charges
✅ Any 3rd party involved
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Helpful tip 💡
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✅Think of SLI as your shipment’s travel guide –
The more accurate it is, the
smoother your export process
will be.
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How an SLI helps you ship better?
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📈 Faster dispatch
🛃 Fewer customs problems
🧾 Better documentation
😊 Satisfied overseas buyers
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Do you always need an SLI?
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✅ YES — If you use a freight forwarder or 3rd-party shipper.
❌ NO — If you’re shipping small parcels yourself
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